One of my favourite self help books is ‘The Dance of Intimacy’ by Harriet G. Lerner. One of the quotes that I have adopted from the book is ‘Don’t just do something, stand there’. This is in complete contrast to the need to rush in, rescue, problem solve for others. This quote reminds me to be present, here is an excerpt from The Golden Venture E book;
‘Rejoice in the things that are present; all else is beyond thee.’ Michel de Montaigne
Make a date with your self, meet up right here – now. Give your self a gift; describe what you can see all around you. Notice the details and then look again further and deeper.
Describe what you can hear around you. Listen out for the pitch and the volume, listen within for the sounds of your breathing.
Describe what you can smell right now or describe the most pleasant smell you know. Describe the most luscious taste in the most desirable way.
Touch whatever is nearest to you, notice how it feels; describe the texture and the sensations that you feel.
Wrap this gift up and give your self permission to receive it…….. “this is your present”.
‘Don’t just do something, stand there’. Harriet G. Lerner